Dear Members and Friends of Pender UMC:

Yesterday we completed our General Conference Information sessions as the first step of preparing the congregation for the conference that will meet in Charlotte NC, April 23-May3. I am grateful to the 50 people who attended the sessions, and especially thankful to our team that worked with me to put together the printed handout and power point presentation: Beth Dougherty, Andy Kaye, and Arlet Williams. My thanks also to Donna Parker for helping to make the presentations. If you were unable to attend one of the sessions, I encourage you to see the information now posted on the church website. Paper copies may also be obtained in the church office or on a table in the Gathering Place. If you have any questions, comments, suggestions, or concerns, we encourage you also to send them to me, Donna, or the church office. All will be collected and responded to when we know the results of the conference. Your input is needed and greatly appreciated. It is important to remember that being well-informed is just step one in this process. Our aim is to discern a faithful path ahead for Pender UMC. This will require bathing the entire process in prayer, each of us at each step of the way, and together. It will also mean humbling ourselves before God and each other, to seek “the mind of Christ,” and to “speak the truth in love,” calling on the wisdom of the Holy Spirit to guide us in the way of Christ. 

As we prepare for the conference, I am confident that God is doing a new and good work among Jesus’ disciples at Pender UMC. I am also reminded of Christ’s familiar and comforting words, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them” (Matthew 18:20). It is worth noting that our Lord spoke that reassuring word to his disciples as part of his instruction about how they were to handle their disagreements.  Yes, it is true that the church must deal with troubles and sometimes over serious issues. But how comforting to know that the Lord of the Church does not abandon his own when times are tough but invites us to gather in his name and call upon the Spirit to help us with a task that will demand more than our mere human abilities and intentions. As we are faithful to follow Christ in this needful time, I believe that we will see the one who loves us most doing an unexpected and mighty work of grace and truth, love, and righteousness, among us.  Lead on, Lord Jesus, for your glory and our salvation.

Pastor Bruce

As Christians we know that God has acted in Jesus Christ to be in relationship with us, and we want to grow in our relationship to God. From the start, this has also been a central feature of Methodist Christianity. But how does this growth happen? And what is our part? Beginning next week, we will begin a new study and conversation to consider the ways God works in our lives with grace, and the specific ways in which we can participate in the process of knowing and loving the Lord. 

If you are interested, join us either on Tuesday at 7:00pm or on Thursday at 10:00am in the library.

We will order books soon and encourage anyone who is able to reimburse the church for the cost ($16) If that is a stretch for you, the church will pick up the cost. Since growing in our relationship to God is a topic that is relevant to every person, feel free to invite a friend or acquaintance beyond our congregation. I hope to see you there. Pastor Bruce

Strength Comes Through Struggle

Although we try everything we can to avoid unpleasant experiences in life, sometimes things go wrong: God allows us to go down a path more difficult than we ever expected. There are times that try our souls, they are so hard we come very close to buckling under the pressure of the pain and heartache. Sometimes, we just really suffer!

After his conversion, the Apostle Paul’s moral and ethical life was exemplary by anyones standards. He was also a prolific New Testament writer and a missionary trailblazer. Yet, Paul was shipwrecked, beaten on several occasions, almost stoned to death while doing God’s work, betrayed by his colleagues, and cast into prison. An unlikely set of experiences and outcomes for a man of notable integrity, did so much good work, who was a card carrying member of the privileged class and well educated by Gamaliel, one of the great thinkers of the day.

Sometimes, there are no adequate answers as to why we have to endure some of the more acute difficulties and heartaches in life. It is a mystery. We can, however, recognize we grow stronger because of them. This is also a mystery. And, it might be the only unobjectionable response to the harder realities that come our way. To use Paul as an example, his sufferings enhanced his sensitivities, molded his character, boosted his spirituality, and accelerated his good work in his lifetime and beyond. Paul acknowledged this mystery in his writings, through his weaknesses and not his strengths he became strong.

Life is not always predictable and sometimes very difficult. Yet, we do become stronger through our heartaches and challenges. This may not always be enough for us, but it is what we have for now. When we pass through this life to the other side, it will be more clear why we went through so much strength training to build up our emotional and spiritual muscle in this life.

Seed Thoughts by Joseph C. Hutchison, Rochester Hills, Michigan, 2020 

After a four-year delay, the 2020 General Conference will take place April 23-May 3, 2024 in Charlotte, NC.

What is Pender UMC doing to prepare for the General Conference? See the videos below and view the General Conference: Discerning a Faithful Path Forward PDF

NEWS from the Delegation

VAUMC General Conference Delegation Endorses Christmas Covenant Regionalization Plan.

Overview

The VAUMC General Conference Delegation unanimously supports the Christmas Covenant regionalization plan as the wisest and most hopeful way forward for the United Methodist Church. At the June 2023 Annual Conference, the General Conference Delegation made a short presentation on this matter. The Virginia Annual Conference then voted to endorse the Christmas Covenant regionalization plan as well.

In September 2023, the authors of the Christmas Covenant joined with the Connectional Table and the Standing Committee on Central Conference Matters to submit updated regionalization legislation for General Conference. This updated plan will be considered at General Conference 2024. If this regionalization plan passes, Annual Conferences will have to vote to ratify the resultant constitutional amendments. We, the General Conference delegation, are grateful that the Virginia Annual Conference voted to endorse the Christmas Covenant regionalization plan in advance of the 2024 General Conference.

Regionalization FAQs

The Social Principles are the topic of the latest Before Conference Conversations video, featuring Virginia General Conference delegate Alison Malloy. Alison serves on the General Board of Church and Society and worked on the task force that helped develop the proposed revision to the Social Principles.

Social Principles Video below

Finance Chairman David Kinard brings an exciting update to the Pender community about our dynamic financial endeavor, the "Bridge of Hope" campaign. This initiative isn't just a campaign; it's a journey towards a brighter future for our church, and every member's contribution is a pivotal step on this bridge.

As of March 14, 2024, our collective efforts have already amassed a remarkable $159,880! What's even more heartening is that $10,000 of this is a matching grant from a generous member of our church family. This means every contribution to the "Bridge of Hope" is effectively doubled, up to an astounding $92,000. Every penny you give becomes two, making your impact even more significant.

Pamela and I are personally committed to this cause. All our weekly offerings are now channeled directly to the "Bridge of Hope," ensuring we fully leverage this matching opportunity. We encourage you to consider doing the same. Remember, undesignated funds go into our general fund, so let's be intentional with our giving. It's as simple as marking "Bridge of Hope" on your check, envelope, or selecting it from the dropdown menu when giving online.

Our goal is to maximize this matching gift and double our financial strength. This campaign is more than just numbers; it's about sustaining our beloved church's future. Over the past few years, our savings have dwindled as we've struggled to cover monthly expenses. The "Bridge to Hope" is our path to financial stability, ensuring we don't deplete our reserves.

To help everyone understand the depth and importance of this campaign, we've prepared informative handouts and giving cards available in the Pender narthex. These include answers to frequently asked questions and contact information for any further queries you might have.

Join us in this remarkable journey of faith and generosity. Let's seize this opportunity to double our impact and secure our church's financial future. Your participation in the "Bridge of Hope" campaign is not just a donation; it's an investment in the heart and soul of our Pender community.

To give, click here and choose "Bridge of Hope" - thank you!

Hello Pender Family!

We're excited to see all the wonderful meetings and gatherings being planned within our community! To ensure everything runs smoothly, we kindly ask that all Pender meetings, whether they're happening on-campus, off-campus, or virtually via Zoom, be included on the church calendar. This little step helps us all stay connected and informed.

If you're looking to request a meeting, it's super easy! Just fill out this form, and voilà, you're on your way. We'll send you an email to let you know once your event is approved. Just a heads-up: if a room is already booked, we won't be able to schedule your event there, but we'll do our best to find a great alternative for you.

We appreciate your patience in waiting for the approval of your meeting. We know you're eager to get together, but it's best to hold off on resuming meetings until you get the green light. This ensures that your space is confirmed and ready for you. Remember, completing the form is the first step, but your room isn't booked until you receive that approval email.

Thanks for helping everything run like clockwork at Pender! We can't wait to see all the amazing things you'll be doing in your meetings. 

Questions or need help? Email webmaster@penderumc.org.

Blessings and Happy Planning!

Meeting this Saturday (3/16/2024)

All are welcome to join us for a discussion to consider “Questions in Faith” that pertain to us all, no matter our station of life or faith. 

We will meet in the library at 10:30 to talk about biblical answers to questions about God, faith, and life that relate to us all. 

If you plan to come, contact me to make arrangement to get you a study book that will be the basis of our discussion. 

Bring your Bible with you and invite a friend.  

Support our First Responders by helping us restock our Rest Stop.

The following donations are currently needed: 16 oz bottled water and energy drinks.

Donations can be dropped off in the Church Office.

Our officers continually let us know how blessed they are to have a safe place here at Pender! In turn, we are safer because of their presence!

BlackGirlScientist, LLC. will sponsor a FREE STEM Workshop (Lava Lip Gloss Lab) at Pender UMC for the maximum of 30 middle school age girls. The goal will be to expose young girls to STEM through an interactive workshop.

STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It's a term used to group together these related technical disciplines. STEM is often used in the context of education policy and school curriculum choices.

Register today!

Hi Sunday School Families & Friends, 

There are some wonderful family/children's activities happening ithis year. Please come and enjoy! All are welcome -- and invite a friend!

Discover a supportive space for new beginnings! Join us every Wednesday at 6:00 PM in the serene ambiance of Pender UMC's Library.

At 5:00 PM there is a time of casual chat, known as the "meeting before the meeting".

Engage in meaningful conversations and find camaraderie at our AA meetings, guided by the experienced Tom O, a dedicated long-term member.

These are open meetings.

OPEN (Open to anyone interested in Alcoholics Anonymous' program of recovery from alcoholism)

DISCUSSION (Group participation in discussion of topic relevant to the AA program)

STEP (Group discussion of the 12 steps of AA)

Pender VBS Registration is open!

VBS will be the week of June 24 through June 28

In the bustling, whimsical world of Hero Hotline Headquarters, superheroes of every shape, size, and superpower come together under the watchful eye of the wise Professor and the legendary Super Meer, a daring Meerkat hero.

Here, in this vibrant hub of heroism, young and old heroes alike answer the call of duty, joining forces to lend their extraordinary talents to Hero Teams across the globe.

Whether it's solving perplexing puzzles, battling dastardly villains, or rescuing those in peril, these superheroes are always ready to save the day with a dash of fun, a sprinkle of humor, and a whole lot of heart.

Register at https://penderumc.org/vbs

Eggstravaganza Alert for 150 Little Explorers!

Get ready for a spectacular Outdoor Easter Egg Hunt, where adventure awaits and excitement is just a hop away! This event is a dream-come-true for every bunny in the family - from the tiniest of tots to the coolest of kids.

Here’s what’s in store:

• Egg-citing Easter Egg Hunt: Dash and dart through the great outdoors on a quest to find the most eggs!
• Nature's Palette of Eggs: Dive into a world where vibrant eggs are nestled among spring's finest backdrops.
• Snack-a-thon Station: Refuel with scrumptious snacks, popcorn that pops with flavor, and lemonade as sweet as spring.
• Sunshine and Smiles: Bask in the glow of the sun and the joy of the day with friends and family.
• Goodie Bags & Raffle Fun: Every explorer gets a goodie bag and a raffle ticket for a chance to win egg-cellent prizes.
• Bunny Bingo & Bunny Hop: Get your game face on for Bunny Bingo and show off your best moves in the Bunny Hop.
• Safe for All: We’ve got allergy-friendly options, so every child can join the thrill of the hunt.

Gather Your Baskets!

• Date: March 30, 2024
• Time: 10:30 AM - 12 PM
• Check-In: 9:45 Pender. Be on time to grab your child's goodie bag and raffle ticket!

Three Age Divisions: Ensuring fair play and fun for all, with little ones, middles, and big kids each having their own egg-ventures.

Don't miss out on this springtime fiesta! Bring your baskets, wear your sunniest smiles, and let’s hop into a day of joy and jolly-good fun!

See you at the starting line, egg-hunters!

Schedule:

Outside:

10:30-11:00 Preschool age egg hunt

11:00-11:30 Kindergarten- second grade egg hunt

11:30-12:00 2rd-6th grade egg hunt

Inside while the hunts are happening:

Cottontail Cafe - popcorn and lemonade

Brief film

Bunny Bingo and prizes for EVERY child.

Bunny Hop Dance

Raffle for 2 local merchant gift cards every half hour!

At noon - final raffle for large, loaded Easter basket!!

It's free, but we can only accommodate 150 children plus their parents.

 Please let us know you're coming!

Western Fairfax Christian Ministries ("WFCM") Current Request for Donations

WFCM has been providing food and services to the community for 35 years. Pender was one of the twelve founding churches that set the path and began the journey. Becky Bryan is our current liaison with WFCM.

Thanks goes out to all of you who continue to support WFCM many programs.

~~~

The WFCM blue cart is outside the church.

WFCM pantry needs:

• Canned peaches and canned fruit cocktail, no sugar added
• Oatmeal, grits
• Canned tomatoes, stewed or crushed
• Risotto
• Brown rice
• Toiletries: toothpaste, lotion, toilet paper

All donations of food and toiletries are welcomed and needed.

Please no:

* Expired food

* Glass jars

* Egg Cartons

Thanks to all of you who faithfully extend your loving mercy to those in our community who may face food insecurity without the donations we make to WFCM. Usually this Pender weekly email does not contain the entire letter from WFCM with their monthly update. Since it may have been awhile since you’ve seen how your contributions make a difference, please take a couple of minutes to read this. You’ll also learn about the various ways WFCM gets food to those who need it. 

Below is an excerpt from the letter which I want to bring to your attention. 

Please consider a recurring monthly donation. How does this help? We are able to turn your monthly donation of $50 into $300 of groceries.

When you give a cash donation to Pender designated for the WFCM Food Pantry, Pender will forward the donation to WFCM with the restriction to use it for the food pantry. In March we have sent $1,000 – which multiplies into $6,000 worth of food when WFCM makes bulk purchases.

If you have any questions, please contact me, Becky Bryan, or you may contact WFCM directly.

Again, thanks to each of you who continue to support this important ministry.

Read this month's WFCM Newsletter.

The WFCM Food Pantry is accepting outside donations at their address below. There is a greater need for food but fewer donations.

You can also help by ordering from Amazon for delivery to WFCM. Rice, beans, canned fruit, diapers (Sizes 4, 5, 6), pasta, pasta sauce, etc.



                   WFCM

                   4511 Daly Drive, Suite J

                   Chantilly, VA 20151

Financial contributions are also accepted (cash, check or through our website). Please mark your tax deductible donation "WFCM Food Pantry." This will be recorded on your giving statement.

Thank you for your continuing support of WFCM. In 2021, Pender donated 6,128.74 pounds of food and personal care items to help the needy in the community. Thank you for your ongoing and generous support of WFCM.

Pender is an open and welcoming church. We accept and embrace all persons, period. All people are blessed children of God. Pender is a caring and praying church community; we believe as Christians that we are called to follow and practice the ways of Jesus Christ, who is our ever present and living God.

Our mission is to practice and embrace, providing unconditional love and acceptance of all of God's children as He loves and accepts all of us.

We do not discriminate based on age, mental, physical, or intellectual ability, culture, gender, race, religious belief or unbelief, or sexual orientation.